With just a few days remaining until Census Night on Tuesday 8 August, Collectors are out and about delivering forms to and from every household across the nation.

Collectors are critical to an effective Census count according to Peter Damcevski, a Director from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), who is in Bathurst to support the efforts of local Census field staff.

Mr Damcevski is meeting with the local field staff to discuss progress on the mammoth task that is the 2006 Census.

“Census Collectors are the statistical foot soldiers in this national operation," said Mr Damcevski.

“Our Collectors are knocking on every household door – you can spot them by their bright yellow bags and all will carry photo identification. People should feel free to ask Collectors any questions about the Census they may have.

“The Census helps to paint a picture of your community. It provides information on many important topics like the age profile of the population, your heritage, your income, education levels and the industries in which people are working.

“It is vital that everyone participates so that your community has an accurate count from which to plan the services that are required” said Mr Damcevski.

This year, people will have the option of completing their Census form electronically via the Internet (called eCensus).

“Everyone will still have a paper Census form delivered to their household, but they will also receive additional information about how to complete their Census forms electronically if they wish to do so,” said Mr Damcevski.All Census information is kept confidential by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

“No Census information is released by the ABS which can allow your personal information to be identified” said Mr Damcevski.

The Census is held every five years and provides comprehensive information about the characteristics of the population.

Collectors will be delivering Census forms right up to Census day. Collectors will return to collect Census forms between 9 and 28 August.

People who need assistance with the Census can ask their Collector or call the Census Inquiry Line on 1300 362 883.